How to Write an Effective Changelog for Your Products

Any digital product release needs a changelog entry. It summarizes the improvements and changes made to the product so users and clients can understand what’s changed. 

Using this guide, digital product authors can learn how to write, format, and include the necessary data and information in their changelogs.

The changelog appears under the “Description” section only when there’s at least one approved change. Users will still be able to see the changelog this way.

In the author account it’s located on the product upload page.

Creating Changelog Entries

Each entry in the changelog should follow a specific date format. Use the same format that is already present on most product pages – MM DD, YYYY. 

You can check Monstroid 2 changelog for reference. 

This consistency allows users to easily track the timeline of changes.

Types of changelog entries

The following types of changelog entries should be used to categorize the changes:

  1. Added – use this type for introducing new features, pages, or child themes.
    Example: Added new payment integration feature.
  2. Changed – use this type for changes in existing functionality.
    Example: Changed the user interface to improve user experience.
  3. Deprecated – use this type for features that will be removed in future releases.
    Example: Deprecated old API endpoints.
  4. Removed – use this type for features that have been completely removed.
    Example: Removed support for Internet Explorer 11.
  5. Fixed – use this type for bug fixes.
    Example: Fixed navigation bugs.
  6. Security – use this type for addressing vulnerabilities or security-related changes.
    Example: Improved user authentication security.
  7. Updated – use this type for updates related to CMS (Content Management System) and hosting requirements.
    Example: Updated CMS version to WordPress 6.1.

Adding changelog entries

To add a new changelog entry, follow these steps:

  • Be sure to check the calendar before you add the date.
  • Select the appropriate type of change.
  • Write a clear description of the change.

Changelog entry example

## May 31, 2023:

  • Fixed issues causing crashes on mobile devices.
  • Added the ability to divide library layout into sections, sections into rows, and rows into modules.

Best practices for writing changelog entries

Follow these best practices to make your changelog clear and effective:

  1. Make sure your descriptions are short and to the point.
  2. Make sure you’re using plain, simple language that everyone can understand.
  3. Include any relevant details that help users understand the impact or significance of the change.
  4. The entries should be organized chronologically, with the most recent changes at the top.
  5. Using technical terms or jargon that may be unfamiliar to users is a bad idea.
  6. Add more details or emphasize significant changes in the description.

Conclusion

Keep users informed about changes to a digital product with a changelog. This guide helps digital product authors create clear, informative, and well-structured changelogs that enhance user experience and facilitate the adoption of new features and improvements.


Writing Product Changelog FAQ

I’m getting an error “Add at least 30 characters” when I try to submit a changelog. What should I do?

When updating the product archive, this error may appear. Every time you make changes to your product, you should update the changelog.

Should I include minor changes in the changelog? 

It’s good practice to include both major and minor changes. Major changes may affect users directly, but minor changes can help stability, performance, and usability. 

Is it a good idea to list every minor bug fix?

It’s good practice to mention significant bug fixes that address critical issues or affect a lot of users.

What’s the best way to format the date?

Maintain consistency and help users track changes by formatting the date in the following way ##MM DD, YYYY. Organize entries chronologically, with the latest changes at the top.

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